Columbus has received a $100,000 Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) Community Recycling Grant Program (CRGP). IDEM awarded $500,000 among 12 applicants.
City officials did not respond by press time as to specifics about how Columbus’ grant money would be used.
“These grants support practical, locally driven solutions that help reduce waste, lower costs, and build sustainable systems that last. I’m proud to see Indiana investing in efforts that deliver environmental benefits without relying on taxpayer dollars,” said Gov. Mike Braun.
CRGP grants are available to counties, municipalities, solid waste management districts, schools, universities and nonprofit organizations located in Indiana. Funding is intended to create successful, cost-effective programs. Applicants must demonstrate a positive environmental impact within the project service area, an increase in waste diversion as a result of the project and show the sustainability of the project.
“Community recycling programs are a win-win for Hoosiers. They protect our environment and lower disposal costs,” said IDEM Commissioner Clint Woods. “IDEM is proud to partner with these organizations to provide innovative solutions to increase recycling throughout the state. “
Here is the list of recipients and the awarded amounts:
- City of Columbus $100,000
- City of Rensselaer Streets and Sanitation Department $18,185
- City of Seymour Department of Public Works $2,437
- City of South Bend $91,500
- Civil City of Auburn $100,000
- Clark County Solid Waste $99,885
- Indianapolis Airport Authority $50,769
- Knox County Recycling and SWMD $11,923
- Recycling and Waste Reduction District of Porter Co. $2,167
- reTHink, Inc. $17,990
- Town of Mulberry $1,557
- Vermillion County SWCD $3,587
Along with an increase in waste diversion, applicants must demonstrate a positive environmental impact within the project service area and show future sustainability for the project.
The Community Recycling Grant Program is authorized to provide grants under IC 13-20-22. Grants are funded through IDEM’s Solid Waste Management Fund. Funds come from the solid waste management fee (IC 13-20-22-1). The fee consists of $0.50 per ton charge on solid waste for final disposal at Indiana municipal solid waste landfills and incinerators. None of the grant funding comes from tax dollars.
